2016 Lexus IS 200t vs. 2017 Lexus IS 200t: Which Is Better?

The 2017 Lexus IS 200t comes standard with advanced safety features—but they come with a higher price tag.
Written by Kara Vanderbeek
When comparing the 2016 and 2017
Lexus IS 200t
, the biggest difference with the newer models is the addition of advanced safety features. So which is the better choice?
With each new year comes new car models, and with all the added bells and whistles on newer vehicles, it can be hard to keep track of what’s contributing to the higher price tag. If you’re in the market for a Lexus but are unsure about the differences between models, you’ve come to the right place. 
We’ll go over pricing, fuel efficiency, safety features, and available upgrades for this luxury sedan and help you pick between models.  2016 Lexus IS 200t vs. 2017 Lexus IS 200t: what’s the difference?
With high reliability scores, impressive safety marks and a luxurious interior, the Lexus IS is a convincing choice for buyers. So what’s the biggest difference between the 2016 and 2017 model years?
Most notably, the 2017 model comes standard with a suite of advanced driver assistance safety features that were previously optional. The sedan received a minor exterior makeover, with larger intakes in the bumper, new LED headlamps and a fresh grille. On the interior, drivers are welcomed with a larger navigation display screen and revised cabin.
Want to see a more detailed comparison? Let’s dive in. 

Pricing

There are three trim levels of the 2016 Lexus IS: 200t Base Trim, 300 AWD, and 350, with the addition of the 350 AWD in 2017. Compare pricing between each year’s trim levels below.
Model
2016 MSRP
2017 MSRP
Lexus IS 200t Base
$37,325
$38,800
Lexus IS 300 AWD
$39,700
$42,950
Lexus IS 350
$43,035
$54,650
Lexus IS 350 AWD
N/A
$53,350
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General specs

For the increase in pricing, the differences between the 2016 and 2017 model years are fairly minimal. In fact, each vehicle is motivated by the same engine, transmission and drivetrain, with the only significant changes appearing between base and upgraded trim levels
2016 Lexus IS 
2017 Lexus IS
Base engine 
Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (241 horsepower)
Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (241 horsepower)
Upgrade engine (300 AWD, 350, 350 AWD)
3.5-liter six-cylinder engine (306 horsepower) 
3.5-liter six-cylinder engine (306 horsepower) 
Transmission
Eight-speed automatic (base), six-speed automatic (upgrade)
Eight-speed automatic (base), six-speed Automatic (upgrade)
Drivetrain
Rear-wheel drive (base), AWD  (upgrade)
Rear-wheel drive (base), AWD (upgrade)
Maximum towing capacity
1,500 lbs
1,500 lbs

Fuel economy

As expected when comparing two vehicle models with identical specs, the 2016 and 2017 models’ fuel economy ratings are no different. While a vehicle’s exact fuel efficiency depends on where and how the vehicle is driven, the EPA-estimated mileage ratings are as follows:
  • Base engine (2.0-liter): 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
  • Upgrade engine (3.5-liter): 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
While the upgraded models may pack a bigger punch with their V6 engines, the base engine on this Lexus delivers a smarter fuel economy. If you’re looking to save money down the road, sticking to the base 200t model will be a better bet than the 300 or 350 models.

Safety ratings

Both the 2016 and 2017 Lexus IS received five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the top rating of Good in five crash safety tests. In addition, the 2017 IS collected a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety .
While the 2016 IS paved the way for the 2017 IS’ impressive scores, the standard safety features on each vehicle are what set the two model years apart. Safety equipment on the 2016 IS includes automatic collision notification, a stolen-vehicle locator and emergency button assist, while features such as parking sensors, a rearview camera and blind spot monitoring do not come standard.
On the 2017 model, however, you can expect the Lexus Safety System+, complete with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision warning system, automatic high beams, and lane keep assist.

Styling and interior changes

The 2017 Lexus IS received some minor interior upgrades from the 2016 model. Style, comfort, and technology highlights include: 
  • A 7-inch infotainment display screen
  • Bluetooth compatibility 
  • A 10-speaker sound system
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Moonroof
  • App-linked navigation
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel 
  • Power front seats
If you’re looking to experience true luxury, a 15-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, rearview camera, integrated navigation, and a 10.3-inch infotainment screen are also available features on the 2017 model.

2016 Lexus IS 200t vs. 2017 Lexus IS 200t: which should you buy?

If you’re deciding between the 2016 Lexus IS and the 2017 Lexus IS, the two biggest factors to consider are safety and cost. While the two model years are similar, the 2017 IS offers more in the way of advanced safety features, as well as an updated interior and exterior. However, these updates come with a cost. If you’re on a tighter budget, the 2016 is still a safe and reliable pick.
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